Sonia Fowler had powerful scenes in EastEnders as she learned of Carol’s cancer (Picture: BBC)

She might have been initially overshadowed by Shabnam – but Sonia Fowler’s latest appearance in EastEnders saw her finally come in to her own.

Natalie Cassidy’s alter-ego – who reappeared on Tuesday night – had the chance to get to grips with a strong storyline as she learned of mum Carol’s breast cancer.

And viewers took to Twitter to give her the thumbs up, with one commenting: ‘Gosh, powerful scene when Carol told Sonia she had cancer. Brilliantly played.’

Another commented: ‘I just turned #Eastenders on and it’s like watching an episode from 15 yrs ago. We’ve got Sonia, Sharon, Carol Jackson, David Wicks!’

Shabnam has proven less than popular with viewers, who have complained to the BBC about her ‘racist’ remarks (Picture: BBC)

But while Sonia was a hit with viewers, Shabnam continued to anger them, this time with a dinner sequence when she continued to voice her disapproval of Carol – as well as berating their guest Fatboy for bringing beer to the meal.

The meal ended in a confrontation with Masood over the alcohol – and an action which she found impossible to forgive.

Shabnam’s reappearance has sparked furious debate among viewers, with the BBC admitted it had received complaints about ‘racist’ comments made by the character.

‘EastEnders has a rich history of tackling social issues. The show does not advocate racism or intolerance in any way; in fact it seeks to challenge these negative views,’ a BBC spokesperson said.

‘Shabnam has returned from Pakistan with a renewed religious faith, devoutness and with some strong views. In this episode Shabnam’s comments came from her personal beliefs, but as viewers will see in future episodes, she is strongly challenged on her views by her father Masood.’

I just turned #Eastenders on and it’s like watching an episode from 15 yrs ago. We’ve got Sonia, Sharon, Carol Jackson, David Wickes!